Summary and future directions

Abstract

Understanding interactions between metals and organic matter is very important for exploration of ore minerals. The studies documented in this book are a testimony to the important role that organic matter is considered to play in the crystalization and concentration of minerals. The results presented here provide further evidence to suggest that the association of ore-grade mineralization and organic matter is not accidental, and in particular hydrocarbons seem to play an active role in metallogenesis. As outlined by Dennis Taylor in the introduction to this book, mineral-laden fluids and hydrocarbons use the same pathways. Furthermore the heat source that generates hydrocarbons is the same as enables dissolution and saturation of minerals in hydrothermal fluids. Hydrocarbons provide additional enhancement for mineral solubility at medium to low temperatures, thus actively contributing to mineral concentrations. McConachie et al. emphasize the active role of organic carbon as a reductant in the formation of stratiform ore bodies.